Ceramic vs. Stainless Steel Clipper Blades: What is Better & How Do You Maintain Them?

If you use a clipper to trim your hair, beard, or even body hair, you know how important it is that the blades stay sharp and function well. Yet at Revahs, we often receive the same questions from customers:

• "My clipper pulls on my hair, what now?"

• "What is better: ceramic blades or stainless steel?"

• "How do I best maintain my clipper blades?"

In this comprehensive blog, we delve deeper into these frequently asked questions. We discuss the pros and cons of ceramic and stainless steel (RVS) blades, provide practical maintenance tips, and explain how you can significantly extend the lifespan of your clipper.

1. The basics: What do clipper blades actually do?

The blades of your clipper are the heart of the device. They move rapidly over each other to cut hair evenly. Our Revahs cordless clippers, for example, make 7200 rotations per minute. The sharpness and quality of these blades determine how smoothly the clipper glides through the hair. Dull or poorly maintained blades can pull, tear, or even cause skin irritation.

2. The big question: ceramic or stainless steel?

Ceramic clipper blades

Ceramic knives are becoming increasingly popular, especially with premium clippers like the Revahs Clipper One (Pro) and Clipper Two (Pro). They have several advantages:

Advantages:

• Stay sharper longer: ceramic is harder than steel and wears less quickly

• Become less warm: ideal for prolonged use

• Quieter: produce less noise during shaving

• Do not oxidize: so they don't rust with normal use

Disadvantages:

• More vulnerable: can break if you drop the trimmer

• Slightly more expensive: often found in trimmers from a higher price range

Stainless steel trimmer blades

Stainless steel blades are the traditional choice and are still widely used.

Advantages:

• Strong and robust: good resistance to drops

• Affordable: cheaper to produce and therefore often found in budget models

• Easy to replace: separate blades are easy to find

Disadvantages:

• Wear out faster: need to be sharpened or replaced more often

• Heat development: can heat up faster with prolonged use

3. What suits you best?

The choice between ceramic and stainless steel depends on how intensively you use the trimmer. Are you a professional or do you shave multiple times a week? Then ceramic is worth the investment. Do you use the trimmer occasionally for your beard or neckline? Then stainless steel usually suffices.

At Revahs, we consciously choose ceramic blades in our premium models because of their durability, comfort, and performance.

4. Maintenance: the key to long-lasting performance

Whatever type of blade you choose, proper maintenance is essential. Many users only think about this when the clipper no longer performs optimally. With these steps, you ensure your clipper lasts for years.

Daily maintenance (after each use)

• Removing hairs: use the supplied brush to sweep away loose hairs.

• Keep dry: store your clipper in a dry place, preferably in a case or storage box.

Weekly maintenance (with regular use)

• Oiling: Apply a few drops of clipper oil to the blades while the device is running. This prevents friction and extends the lifespan.

• Not too much oil: A drop is enough. Excess oil attracts dirt.

Monthly maintenance

• Deep cleaning: Use a special clipper cleaner or 70% alcohol on a cotton swab. Clean carefully between the blades.

• Inspecting: Check if the blades are still straight and move well. Stuck or damaged blades can cause damage to skin and hair.

Be careful when using water

Not all clippers are waterproof. Are you using a model that is (such as the Revahs Bodygroomer or the IPX6 waterproof SkullShaver)? Then you can rinse the blades under the tap. Dry thoroughly afterwards.

5. Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)

🚫 Do not use oil: Without oil, friction occurs, causing the blades to dull faster or even get damaged.

🚫 Cleaning with water on non-waterproof models: This causes rust and defects.

🚫 Disassembling blades without knowledge: It seems simple, but incorrect reassembly can worsen the operation of the clipper. Let us know if you want to disassemble the blades, then we can send a video of the disassembly.

🚫 Forgot to clean: Accumulated hair and dirt affect the performance of the blades and can cause blockages.

6. Tips for optimal performance

• Use the correct attachment combs: This prevents direct contact between blade and skin, which ensures an even result and less wear.

• Store your clipper safely: For example, in the charging station or in a protective cover.

• Let the clipper cool down after intensive use: This prevents overheating of the motor and blades.

7. When should you replace the blades?

Even the best blades eventually wear out. Watch for these signs:

• The device pulls on your hair

• The sound changes or becomes louder

• The result is uneven or rough

With self-sharpening blades like in the Revahs Clipper Two, this happens much less quickly, but with intensive use, replacement after one to two years is normal.

8. Summary: your checklist

The type of blade you choose – ceramic or stainless steel – affects your shaving experience, maintenance, and durability. While ceramic blades are ideal for long-lasting comfort and sharpness, stainless steel offers a solid, affordable option for the occasional user.

Whatever you choose: a well-maintained clipper works better, lasts longer, and ensures a smoother result. So don't forget to regularly clean and oil your blades.

Want to know which type of clipper suits you best? Check out our range at revahs.nl or contact our customer service for personal advice.